Will Cam Heide Start for Texas After Shining Against Rider?

In a commanding 99-65 victory over Rider, the Texas Longhorns showcased a revitalized three-point shooting performance. Cam Heide stood out, scoring a career-high 20 points and sinking six out of nine shots from beyond the arc. This impressive display may have prompted Texas coach Sean Miller to consider Heide for a starting position.

Cam Heide’s Emerging Role

Heide, a 6-foot-7 junior, joined Texas from Purdue during the offseason. His opportunity arose when Nic Codie tweaked his groin during practice. In the opening game featuring a three-day stretch at the Maui Invitational, Miller hinted at continuing Heide’s presence in the starting lineup, emphasizing the positive impact he had on the game.

Performance Highlights

• Heide scored a career-high 20 points against Rider.
• He made 66.7% of his three-point attempts.
• Texas improved their shooting percentages significantly during the game, with 36.6% from three-point range.

Coach Sean Miller noted how Heide’s scoring and floor spacing create opportunities for teammates. “He strikes fear in the other team,” Miller remarked, recognizing Heide’s ability to open the court for other players.

Upcoming Challenges at Maui Invitational

The Longhorns are set to participate in the Maui Invitational from November 24-26 in Maui, Hawaii. Their first match is against Arizona State, scheduled for November 20 at 10:30 p.m. on ESPN2, with hopes of advancing to the semifinals.

Player Development

Nic Codie, who has performed commendably this season, is recovering from his injury. He averaged 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in the first four games. Heide’s current form has added depth to the Longhorns’ roster.

Heide’s transformation as a player appears to be growing, with significant contributions both defensively and in rebounding. This multidimensional skill set aligns with Miller’s vision for the team.

Looking Ahead

The combination of Heide’s shooting prowess and the potential return of Codie could bolster Texas as they navigate the Maui Invitational. Coach Miller is optimistic about maintaining his team’s momentum, especially with Heide’s newfound role in the starting lineup.